Trafford residents are being invited to help improve cancer awareness across the borough by signing up to become a Cancer Champion.
The initiative is part of the wider Through the Front Door (TTFD) Cancer Project, which works to increase awareness of cancer, encourage screening uptake and help people live well with and beyond a cancer diagnosis.
Local people are being sought to help to share important messages about cancer prevention, signs and symptoms, screening programmes and available support within their communities.
Anyone registered with a Trafford GP practice and wanting to make a difference can get involved. No previous experience is needed, just a desire to support their community and a few spare hours to volunteer.
People interested in finding out more are invited to attend a Cancer Champions workshop at Stretford Public Hall on 23 September. The event will bring together residents, healthcare professionals and community organisations to explore how to improve knowledge of cancer and help local people access the support and services available to them.
Cancer is the most common cause of premature death in Trafford according to the latest Cancer Joint Strategic Needs Assessment (JSNA) published in 2023. Around 38% of new cancer cases each year could be prevented by tackling behavioural risk factors, while breast, cervical and bowel cancers have a 90% survival rate when detected early.
Councillor Jane Slater, Trafford Council Executive Member for Health and Wellbeing, said:
"Cancer affects thousands of people and families across Trafford, but we know that early diagnosis, screening and greater awareness can save lives.
"Cancer Champions will play an important role in helping local people understand the signs and symptoms of cancer, access screening programmes and find support when they need it.
"This is a fantastic opportunity for residents to make a real difference in their communities. Whether you have personal experience of cancer or simply want to help improve health outcomes in Trafford, I would encourage you to come along to the workshop and find out more."
Cancer Champions will receive support and resources to help them share information with friends, family, community groups and local networks. They are also invited to become involved in local campaigns and awareness events.
The organisers hope to recruit between 50 and 100 volunteers from across the borough, ensuring communities in every neighbourhood are represented.
The programme is funded by the Greater Manchester Cancer Alliance and delivered by health, care and community partners including the Trafford Local Care Organisation.
Residents who would like to attend the workshop can sign up by emailing TTFD@mft.nhs.uk or through the Trafford Local Care Organisation website. Participants are encouraged to register before mid-September to secure a place at the launch event.